Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy’s debut album Four Ever delivers a rich tapestry of acoustic-driven folk, country, and classic rock, blending timeless covers with heartfelt originals. This Pittsburgh-based supergroup—featuring John Vento, Bob Zigerelli, Cherylann Hawk, and Kevin McCarthy—crafts an album that feels like a musical road trip through the American heartland.
The album opens with “Here Comes Tomorrow,” a song bursting with optimism, led by Cherylann Hawk’s stirring vocals and carried forward by the tight harmonies of the ensemble. The stripped-back instrumentation, led by Zigerelli’s acoustic guitar, allows each lyric to breathe, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
“Racing Trains” showcases McCarthy’s earthy lead vocals, evoking the feel of a midnight train ride across a sprawling landscape. The guitars jangle with an Americana flair, while Hawk’s percussive touches and backing harmonies add layers of texture to the track.
One of the album’s standout moments is “Love, Lust & Wreckage,” where John Vento’s rugged voice takes center stage. His delivery brings an emotional depth to the narrative, while the mandolin, expertly played by McCarthy, adds a wistful air, evoking feelings of longing and loss.
Their cover of John Prine’s “Please Don’t Bury Me” brings warmth and humor, with Zigerelli’s smooth lead vocals, McCarthy’s light guitar work, and Vento’s playful spoons bringing a rustic charm to the classic. Equally engaging is their rendition of Ricky Nelson’s “Garden Party,” where Hawk and Vento’s vocal interplay conjures a communal, feel-good atmosphere, a testament to the group’s dynamic chemistry.
Original tracks like “Spaghetti Western” and “A Little Nudge” highlight the group’s versatility, blending folk and country influences with cinematic storytelling. “Spaghetti Western” particularly stands out for its lyrical imagery, whisking listeners away to desert landscapes with a sense of adventure. The final track, “Set My Heart Free,” provides a serene closing to the album, with Zigerelli’s vocals soaring alongside gentle percussion and lush harmonies.
The production quality on *Four Ever* is polished yet retains an organic feel, thanks to David Granati’s clean engineering and Brian Foraker’s deft mastering. Each instrument is captured with clarity, allowing the group’s vocal harmonies and acoustic interplay to shine.
Similar Albums for Fans of “Four Ever”:
1. Nashville Skyline by Bob Dylan
2. The Trinity Session by Cowboy Junkies
3. Heartbreaker by Ryan Adams
4. Trouble in Mind by Hayes Carll
5. Prisoner in Disguise by Linda Ronstadt
Next Station – Deeper Listening:
For those seeking a more intricate exploration of acoustic and country fusion, Gillian Welch’s Time (The Revelator) offers deeper, introspective songwriting and hauntingly beautiful arrangements.
Verdict:
With Four Ever, Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy have created an album that feels both familiar and fresh. Their fusion of personal songwriting, captivating covers, and intimate acoustic performances leaves a lasting impression. Rating: 87/100.
